His post on X (formerly Twitter), which highlighted the contrast between Nawrocki’s remarks and Rubio’s praise on the occasion of Poland’s May 3rd National Day, was later shared by Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, drawing further attention to the issue.
Wałkuski’s remarks referred to Nawrocki’s comments made after an appearance in the White House Rose Garden.
Nawrocki (who portrays himself as an independent presidential candidate, he is backed by the right-wing opposition Law and Justice (PiS) party, which governed Poland until late 2023) claimed U.S. officials had voiced criticism of Poland’s government, but when asked by Wałkuski to identify who had made the remarks, Nawrocki declined to give names.
“Who criticised Poland?” - Nawrocki avoids answering Polish Radio correspondent’s question
During a press conference in Washington, Wałkuski questioned Nawrocki about his claim of criticism from White House officials.
“I regularly speak with White House officials and listen to President Trump and his cabinet, and what I hear are words of praise - for Poland’s defense spending and its strong economic growth,” Wałkuski said.
“Just yesterday, during a cabinet meeting, the U.S. energy secretary singled out Poland for praise. So where is this criticism coming from? Who exactly voiced it?” - the journalist inquired.
In response, Nawrocki reiterated that unnamed American officials had raised questions about the rule of law, press freedom, and attacks on independent media in Poland.
“These were mostly questions about the rule of law and freedom of the press,” he said.
“There were also discussions about attacks on independent Polish media. Questions were raised in that context. Historically, Poland - regardless of its government - has been a reliable U.S. ally, up until the rupture caused by Donald Tusk’s administration,” he added.
Rubio lauds U.S.-Poland ties, contradicting Nawrocki’s assertions
In contrast to Nawrocki’s comments, Rubio’s statement, released on the occasion of Poland’s Constitution Day, reaffirmed strong bilateral ties and shared democratic values.
“Poland and the United States stand together as partners in building a safer and more prosperous future for our peoples. Poland has dramatically strengthened our shared security through its commitment to NATO and continues to host thousands of American service members. Our trade relationship continues to flourish, and we look forward to continuing to strengthen our energy security cooperation. Our shared future has never looked brighter. I look forward to another year of standing together to uphold the values we share - freedom, prosperity, security, and democracy,” emphasized Rubio.
Marek Wałkuski is one of Poland’s most experienced and respected foreign correspondents. Known for his incisive questions at White House briefings, he currently chairs the White House Foreign Press Group and is the author of "Zakamarki Białego Domu" (“Corners of the White House”), a book offering behind-the-scenes insights into U.S. politics.
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Source: IAR/PR24/X/@PR24_pl/@Marekwalkuski/@sikorskiradek/@USEmbassyWarsaw